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Commander Michael Siedsma, commanding officer, Pre-commissioning Unit Massachusetts (SSN 798), renders a salute during a change of command ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Aug. 26, 2022. During the ceremony, CDR Michael Siedsma relieved Captain Erick Lundberg as commanding officer of Massachusetts. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Cameron Stoner
NEWS
FROM: USS Massachusetts Commissioning Committee
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Change of Command Marks New Chapter for PCU Massachusetts (SSN-798)
In a ceremony steeped in naval tradition, the PCU Massachusetts (SSN-798), a Virginia-class fast attack submarine, marked a significant milestone with a formal change of command ahead of its anticipated commissioning in 2026. The event, held at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia where the submarine is nearing completion, brought together Navy personnel, dignitaries, and supporters from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to witness the symbolic passing of leadership.
The outgoing commanding officer, CAPT Erick Lundberg, was honored for his leadership during the critical construction and pre-commissioning phases of the submarine. In the words of CAPT Brian Hogan, commodore of Submarine Squadron Eight, “Lundberg and his crew built a command that previously did not exist. CAPT Lundberg has absolutely contributed positively and significantly to our nation’s future security [and] established a solid foundation, which will last the next three or four decades.” His tenure was marked by a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of excellence aboard the future warship.
CDR Michael Siedsma, a seasoned submariner with extensive operational experience will be assuming command. As engineer, CDR Siedsma completed the new construction build cycle and ship acceptance testing aboard USS North Dakota (SSN-784). In his remarks, CDR Siedsma emphasized the importance of continuing the legacy of excellence associated with the name Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts is the 25th Virginia-class submarine and will be homeported in Groton, Connecticut following commissioning. Designed for a wide range of missions including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and special operations support, the submarine represents the cutting edge of undersea capability. Her motto,” Pro Patria” (For Country) echoes the spirit of service and sacrifice embodied by her crew.
As the commissioning date approaches, the change of command marks a pivotal moment in the life of the USS Massachusetts. With a new leader at the helm and a dedicated crew ready to bring the ship to life, the submarine is poised to carry forward the proud maritime heritage of the Bay State into the depths of the world’s oceans.